About this Event
Hosted by Siembra Today in collaboration with the Columbia School of Social Work Latinx Caucus
Sponsored by the CSSW Office of Student Life
đź“… Date: March 25, 2026
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
đź“Ť Location: Columbia University School of Social Work 1255 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10027 Room C03
About the Event
Join us for a powerful evening of storytelling, reflection, and community healing at this year’s Planting the Seeds of Hope Summit, featuring the New York premiere screening of Nuestro Apoyo.
Nuestro Apoyo is a short film written by Latina youth, based on research by Fordham University researcher Jenn Lilly, and produced in collaboration with Reel Works The Studio. Directed by Reel Works alum Maya Velazquez, the film follows the Jimenez family as they navigate cultural stigma surrounding mental health and suicide within Latine communities.
Designed to spark meaningful dialogue, the film invites audiences to explore how culture, family dynamics, and support systems shape conversations about mental health — and how openness and community care can foster healing.
The film has screened at festivals across Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and Chicago, and we are honored to bring its New York premiere to our community ahead of its online release.
Why This Matters
Research with English- and Spanish-speaking Latine parents found the film to be deeply culturally resonant and relatable, with 91% of viewers saying they would recommend it to other families.
As one parent shared:
“The film reminds us that everyone needs support sometimes. It shows that ignoring mental health can hurt loved ones, and that being open to help is a way to show love.”
What to Expect
🎬 Film Screening – Experience the moving story of Nuestro Apoyo
💬 Guided Community Conversation – Reflect on mental health, stigma, and culturally responsive care alongside practitioners and community leaders
🤝 Career & Networking Opportunities – Meet mental health organizations and clinics actively hiring new graduates
🌎 Community Connection – Engage with students, professionals, and advocates committed to advancing mental health equity in Latine communities
Who Should Attend?
- Social work students and emerging professionals
- Mental health practitioners and educators
- Latine parents, families, and community members
- Anyone passionate about mental health advocacy, storytelling, and culturally responsive care
This free annual gathering creates space for dialogue, learning, and connection — empowering communities and future professionals to build bridges, break stigma, and plant seeds of hope for collective healing.
✨ Registration is free, but space is limited. Reserve your spot today.
Speakers:
Erica Priscilla Sandoval, LCSW, SIFI, a powerhouse in mental health, social work, and community healing as the Summit moderator. The founder of Sandoval CoLab and Executive Director of Siembra Today, she is dedicated to uplifting Latinx/e voices through storytelling, therapy, and advocacy. An award-winning clinician, author, and speaker, Erica brings a deep commitment to fostering healing spaces where individuals feel seen, supported, and empowered.
đź“© For More Information & Sponsorship Opportunities: Contact [email protected]
CE Approval Information: Please contact Hibbah at [email protected] for information about continuing education credits for social workers.
Instructions for Accommodations: We are committed to providing an inclusive experience for all participants. If you require any accommodations due to a disability, please email us at [email protected] by March 15th, 2026.
Instructions for Grievances: For any inquiries or grievances, please email us at [email protected]. We will respond to all concerns within 72 hours.
Sandoval Psychotherapy Consultation, LCSW, PLLC is recognized by the New York State Education Department's State Board for Social Work as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed social workers #SW-0759.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Teachers College, Columbia University, 525 West 120th Street, New York, United States
USD 0.00
